Bath will be without Butch James for their opening Heineken Cup fixtures after the Springbok fly-half underwent surgery to stabilise his shoulder.

The 31-year-old was injured in South Africa's Tri-Nations victory over Australia at Loftus Versfeld on August 28 and is expected to return to action in November.

Bath open their European account for this season against last season's beaten finalists Biarritz at the Recreation Ground on October 10, with an away trip to face Italian Magners League franchise Aironi following a week later.

"It is always frustrating to lose a player of Butch's influence, but we will make sure he receives the best care and attention to get him back with the squad as and when he's ready," head coach Steve Meehan said.

Summer recruit Sam Vesty has impressed in the No.10 jersey so far this season for Bath, starring in their opening day Premiership win over Leeds. James' injury will also raise questions for the Springbok management given their November Grand Slam tour attempt.